Singer/songwriter Cheryl Shepard, with her son, Sam. Picture by Robin Crossley.
AUDIO
A LEGAL challenge is being mounted over the decision to close Chale Primary School.
The school is being shut in the Isle of Wight Council’s two-tier reorganisation.
But campaigners are trying to raise enough money to fight the move in the High Court, on the grounds the process was flawed.
Singer/songwriter Cheryl Shepard, whose eight-year-old son, Samuel, goes to the school, is hoping sales of a song she has written called How to Make a Miracle will help towards the cost of the action.
She said: "The song is appropriate because it is how we all feel about the school — we need a miracle.
"The school is so important and precious to the village. We are trying to save it for future generations."
Alan Lock, chairman of governors, said their legal advisers were putting together papers in preparation for a legal challenge.
He said any action was likely to cost tens of thousands of pounds and they would have to move quickly as the school was scheduled to close this summer.
"We are right up against it. We have to move in the next couple of weeks. The resolve in the village is still as strong as ever," he said.
The council’s director of children and young people, Colin Peak, said: "We are aware the chairman of governors has begun a challenge in the High Court in relation to the proposed closure of Chale Primary School under the school reorganisation programme.
"Because this is now a legal matter, we do not feel it is appropriate to make any further comment at present."
• CDs cost £3 and are available from Chale Primary School. People should send a cheque made out to Cheryl Shepard, with their address and contact details.
Listen to the track below.
Reporter: martinn@iwcpmail.co.uk